Ilia Topuria aims to become a three-division UFC champion but will remain focused on the lightweight division for now, with a potential future move to welterweight, as the UFC requested he not declare an immediate division change after his victory over Charles Oliveira.
Ilia Topuria has big dreams—three-division UFC champion kind of big. But, patience is key; he might need to wait a bit.
After a jaw-dropping first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira to snag the lightweight title, Topuria spilled some tea. The UFC asked him not to rush into the 170-pound division. They’re holding him back, at least for now.
“I thought about moving up,” Topuria shared on About Last Fight. “But the UFC asked me, ‘Don’t tell us you want to move to welterweight after the fight. Promise us.’ I was like, ‘Promise.’ Fingers crossed, though.”
He’s sticking with lightweight for now. But, never say never—welterweight could be in the cards someday.
Topuria’s got a lineup of contenders waiting. But none more intriguing than Paddy Pimblett, who boldly stepped into the cage post-victory for a faceoff.
Pimblett’s the fight Topuria craves. His emotions toward Oliveira were mixed, filled with respect. But with Pimblett? Different story.
“That’s the guy I’ll enjoy punching,” Topuria declared. “I can do whatever I want with him. Tell me, kid, what you want me to do with you. I don’t need words.”
And Justin Gaethje? Not impressed. When Gaethje’s name came up for a title defense, Topuria wasn’t thrilled.
“Seems like you don’t like the guy,” Topuria quipped. “Why else would you pit him against me?”